Yann Durieux
History and Background
Recrue des Sens, located in the Hautes-Côtes de Nuits, Burgundy, France, was founded in the early 2010s by Yann Durieux. The estate is known for its exceptional natural wines, which reflect the unique terroir of the region. Yann Durieux's commitment to quality and innovative winemaking practices has quickly earned Recrue des Sens a prestigious reputation among Burgundy producers.
Vineyards and Terroir
Yann Durieux's vineyards are located in Burgundy, France, covering approximately 3 hectares:
- Soil Composition: The soils are predominantly limestone and marl, providing excellent drainage and mineral complexity and contributing to the expressive and nuanced flavor profiles of the wines.
- Grape Varieties: The estate primarily grows Pinot Noir, producing elegant and refined red wines that reflect the unique terroir characteristics of minerality and finesse.
Wine Style and Production
- Key Characteristics: Yann Durieux's wines are recognized for their purity and finesse, often being light-bodied with a vibrant acidity that elevates the natural fruit and earthy qualities. Typical aromas and flavors include red fruits like cherry and raspberry, floral notes such as violet, and subtle earthy and mineral undertones. His approach results in wines that are expressive of their varietal characteristics with a distinct freshness and aromatic complexity.
- Winemaking Philosophy: Yann Durieux advocates for an organic and non-interventionist approach to winemaking. Stemming from his deep respect for nature and the unique terroir of Burgundy, his philosophy centers on minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the cellar. He avoids the use of synthetic chemicals and heavily emphasizes the importance of maintaining the health and balance of the vineyard ecosystem.
- Influence on Style and Quality: The meticulous attention to organic farming practices, such as the avoidance of chemical inputs and the emphasis on maintaining healthy soil, significantly influences the style and quality of Yann Durieux’s wines. These practices ensure that the grapes express the true character of the vineyard's terroir. In the winery, Durieux’s use of native yeasts for fermentation and minimal additions throughout the winemaking process allow the wines to develop without masking their natural flavor profile. The result is wines that are not only unique and highly expressive of their origins but also maintain a consistent high quality that is clean and authentically represents Burgundy.
Reputation
Yann Durieux is a notable figure in the natural wine movement in Burgundy, France, recognized for his dedication to producing wines that are expressive of their terroir while adhering to organic and biodynamic principles. Having more than a decade of experience at the esteemed Domaine Prieuré Roch (focused on natural wine production), Durieux has developed a reputation for his intimate understanding of viticulture and winemaking that respects the environment and the natural lifecycle of the vine.
In 2010, Durieux started his own venture, Recrue des Sens, where his reputation further blossomed. He is known for his artisanal approach and strict adherence to non-interventionist methods, avoiding the use of chemicals in both the vineyard and the winery. His use of minimal sulphur, if any, and his commitment to hand-harvesting and using indigenous yeasts have appealed to those who favor wines with minimal environmental impact and maximal terroir expression.
A unique aspect of Yann Durieux's approach is his focus on lesser-known or previously underappreciated parcels of land in Burgundy. He tends to work with vineyards that are not as famous as others in the region but showcases their potential through his skilled winemaking. This not only produces distinctive wines but also highlights the diversity of Burgundy's terroirs.
Durieux’s wines, especially from his personal label, are highly sought after not only for their quality and uniqueness but also for his cult status among natural wine enthusiasts. His pursuit of expressing the purest form of the vineyard's character, combined with his renegade spirit, continues to contribute significantly to his prestige in the wine world.
Final Thoughts
Yann Durieux is a distinctive figure in the world of Burgundy wines, revered for his passionate commitment to biodynamic farming and minimal intervention winemaking techniques that allow the terroir to speak vividly through his wines. Having honed his skills at the esteemed Domaine Prieuré Roch before venturing out on his own, Durieux brought a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to his own label, Recrue des Sens. His focus rests primarily on the Hautes-Côtes de Nuits, where he manages old vines, producing wines that are celebrated for their purity, elegance, and expressive character. What truly sets Durieux apart is his commitment to transparency and sustainability, alongside his crafted expressions of Pinot Noir, which have garnered him a cult following. His meticulous attention to detail and dedication to the ethos of natural winemaking have not only distinguished him among other Burgundian producers but have also positioned him as the model for the future of viticulture in the region.